Whether you have a window cleaner or not, there’s sure to come a time that you need to turn your own attention to streaks and smudges around your home.

Many of us leave the outside-facing glass to the professionals. Still, the insides of your windows can get grimy over time too. Sharing your home with little ones or pets? In that case, your windows might be even more prone to greasy handprints and licks. But what’s the best way to clean windows without streaking?

In this guide, we’ll share our tried-and-tested method for cleaning windows in your home, so you can enjoy a beautiful streak-free shine every time.

cleaning the blinds

How to clean your windows inside

There are a few ways you might like to clean your windows inside. Our tried-and-tested methods offer glistening results in minutes, from using a special glass polish to mixing up a homemade solution. The type of cloth you use can make a difference, too, as can the weather on the day of your clean!

What you’ll need to clean your inside windows

• A dry brush or duster

• A suitable window cleaning solution

• Microfibre or lint-free cloths

scrubbing a window

The best way to clean windows

1. Choose a dry, overcast day

2. Clean blinds, curtains, and window frames first

3. Buy or make a solution that won’t streak

4. Use a clean microfibre cloth or another lint-free cloth

5. Wipe away dust first

6. Work quickly to avoid streaking

cloudy day

1. Choose a dry, cloudy day

If you’ve ever cleaned your windows on a sunny day, only to realise they’re smudged when the clouds come over, you’ll understand this tip already. Bright sunshine can make streaks on your windows difficult to see, which means you’re more likely to miss several spots if you clean on a blue-sky day.

Also, warm sunshine on your windows can dry your cleaning solution too quickly before you get a chance to wipe it away. You’ll need to use a clean, soft cloth to buff your cleaning product dry; if the sun beats you to it, you’re almost certainly going to be left with streaks.

If you can, always wait for a cloudy, dry before cleaning your windows. You’ll stand the best chance of achieving a flawless finish!

clean your curtains

2. Clean blinds, curtains, and window frames first

Before cleaning the glass, it’s a good idea to take care of your blinds, curtains, and windowsills first. Remove any dust with a soft cloth or vacuum cleaner, and go over wooden sills or frames with a nourishing oil or polish.

Once the area around your windows is dust and grime-free, you’re ready to handle the glass.

cleaning solutions

3. Choose a suitable solution

There are a few options when it comes to a window cleaning solution. Many people prefer to buy a ready-made mixture; these often come in convenient spray bottles, so you can spritz, wipe, and you’re good to go.

 

If, on the other hand, you prefer to mix up your own window cleaning solution, there are plenty of recipes you can follow. Vinegar is an excellent addition to a window cleaning mix. Why is vinegar good for cleaning windows? Its antibacterial properties and acidity make it a secret weapon for breaking down grease.

clean windows with cloth

4. Clean windows with the proper cloth

When cleaning your windows, it pays to use the correct type of cloth to ensure a streak-free finish. Soft, clean microfibre cloths are the best thing for the job. You might also like to use paper towels or even scrunched up newspaper if you don’t have any microfibres to hand. The important thing is to ensure the cloth you’re using is lint-free, which means it won’t release any fluff when used.

vinegar clean windows

How to clean windows with vinegar

1. Before you spritz on your vinegar solution, wipe over your windows with a dry microfibre cloth or paper towel to remove any dust

2. Spray your vinegar and water solution all over the glass

3. Use another soft cloth to rub the product using a tight circular motion; start at the top and work your way down

4. Use a clean microfibre cloth to dry the glass, working quickly to prevent streaks

 

Vinegar window cleaning solution recipe – mix one part of white vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle – it couldn’t be simpler!

Why clean windows with vinegar?

Vinegar has antibacterial properties and is entirely non-toxic, so you won’t need to worry about children or pets coming into contact with harsh chemicals. A little goes a long way, which means vinegar is an excellent ingredient for savvy cleaners. Not to mention it’s cheap to buy, so you can clean your house for less.

Cons? None! Sure, it smells a little like a chip shop, but that tangy aroma will vanish after a few minutes as the vinegar solution dries.

With our professional tips and tricks, cleaning your internal windows has never been simpler. Whether it’s part of your weekly cleaning schedule or a monthly or two-monthly clean, you’re sure to enjoy a perfect view of the outside world.